Friends,

With sadness I write to confirm what you already must know: COVID 19 prevents us from completing our Garden Club Year. We will not enjoy a potluck luncheon and spirited bidding at our plant auction. We will not tour the Chicago Botanic Garden together. We will not plant Village of Winthrop Harbor containers and celebrate with lunch. Our wonderful Spring Tea and officer installation will not happen. No Garden Tour. No Raffle. No fundraising income. Nada.

While we mourn this loss, let us also remember what we still have—a vibrant community of friends and an 83-year tradition of beautification, education and community service. Hold tight to that knowledge. It will guide us going forward.

Soon you will be receiving the Nominating Committee’s report. We will elect our officers online for the first time in our history! No doubt the coming months will bring more innovation, more “firsts.” Meanwhile, stay safe, stay well. Tend your gardens. Cultivate joy.